Argan oil

Lipid1–5%

A silky Moroccan kernel oil used to soften skin, tame frizz and add shine to hair.

What it is

Argan oil is pressed from the kernels of the argan tree, which grows in south-west Morocco. It is rich in oleic and linoleic acids and in vitamin E, and it absorbs readily without a heavy feel. It is a familiar name in hair oils, conditioners and body care.

Good for

FrizzDry hairDull hairDry skin

How it works

As an emollient, argan oil coats the hair surface, smoothing the cuticle so hair combs more easily, looks shinier and frizzes less. On skin it forms a light film that softens and reduces water loss. One small 60-day trial in postmenopausal women reported better skin elasticity, but evidence beyond emollient effects is limited.

Ratings

Evidence

2/5

Good emollient performance, with little evidence beyond that.

Gentleness

4/5

Generally well tolerated, with rare allergy reports.

Formulation difficulty

2/5

Simple oil-phase ingredient, best protected with tocopherol.

Cost

3/5

Moderate to high for pure, certified oil.

Popularity

3/5

Common in hair oils and conditioners, though demand has levelled.

Pairs and cautions

Pairs well with

In a routine. Pairing in one formula depends on matching pH windows.

Take care with

Unverified bulk supplyAdulteration risk

Formulations it suits

Hair oil or serum Conditioner and hair mask Lotion Cream Balm

Packaging

Regional considerations

Australia	No scheduling or concentration limits. Macadamia oil is the usual Australian-grown alternative where a local-ingredient claim is wanted.
Climate	Heat speeds rancidity: cosmetic argan oil lost quality quickly at 40°C in a one-year study, and even at 25°C use within 6 months is advised. Use opaque packs and fresh lots for hot markets.

In the lab

Specifications

Typical use level

1–5%0525%

Solubility

Oil-soluble

Sensitive to

OxygenLightHeat

Creams and lotions use 1–5%, while hair and body oils use it at up to 100%.

INCI	Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Also known as	Moroccan argan oil, Argania spinosa
Origin	plant-derived

Lab notes

Solubility and phase

Oil phase. Blends readily with other oils.

Stability

Add 0.05–0.1% tocopherol and store cool, as its oxidative stability is moderate. Cosmetic unroasted grades are paler and less fragrant than culinary oil.

Regulatory, Australia

Cosmetic ingredient in Australia, with no restriction. Covered by CIR's 2017 assessment of plant-derived fatty acid oils as safe in cosmetics.

Claims to take care with

Cosmetic claims include 'nourishes', 'tames frizz', 'adds shine' and 'softens skin', while 'promotes hair growth' or 'reduces hair loss' are therapeutic (TGA). 'Pure' or 'organic' claims must be substantiated, ideally with certified, authenticated supply.